Take a trip back to ancient Israel and Jerusalem but in modern times as host Arne Kislenko questions a variety of experts including rabbis and biblical experts in history and traditions. His findings and travels in the Holy Land is being aired on National Geographic Channel as a 3-hour special (8PM – 11PM) on December 21, 2010. .
The first disc, “Making a Living”, includes a recreation of Jesus overturning the money changer’s tables. The DVD features James Tabor, the Chair of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina. We see a woman spinning wool on a loom and learn more about ancient carpentry. It is hypothesized that Jesus was more of a stone mason than a wood-working carpenter, and that is about as controversial as this DVD gets. We learn more about making a living during the time of Christ as a fish shop is visited. The farming vocation is examined as well. Also, the unpopular tax collector is examined. The need to go into pool and the resulting body fluids such as semen and menstrual fluids finding their way into the waters is another topic this DVD tackles, which leads into the second volume of the three-disc set.
The second DVD continues with “Healing the Sick” and includes an interview with Professor Lior Rosenberg, M.D., from Soroka University Medical Center in Beer Sheva. We learn that surgeries were not common in Jesus’ time, mainly due to a lack of knowledge. Personal habits including going to the bathroom, having sex, and so forth is featured. As is Jesus’ healing of many sick. The Church of the Nativity is featured as well. As is the topic of spells and using amulets to break them. Rabbi Ken Spiro speaks about the superstition of those who believed they needed to break magic spells but that he doesn’t buy into it. Oren Zarif, an “energy healer”, is featured as well.
Finally, “Crime and Punishment” is the title of the final disc, disc three. Crucifixion and various punishments are examined and an interview with crucifixion historian Helen K. Bond is featured. Other forms of Jewish and Roman punishment are discussed including decapitation and being thrown to the lions.
With a likable host in Arne Kislenko, and several fascinating topics, as well as interesting locations, included in this DVD, this DVD set is a winner! We happily award the set our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal and although we recommend it for all ages, young children may not comprehend some of the material which is discussed and there a few sophisticated themes which might be a bit intense for them. Consult our content listing below.